Research reveals there are only 6 basic stories. They discuss emotional arcs and the importance of imagery and metaphor. Planning the beginning hook and creating a smart villain are also explored. Villains and the progression of the story are emphasized.
There are only 6 basic story types that every book is based on, according to new research discussed in the podcast.
Tim's story follows a man falls into the whole narrative arc, transitioning into a rise and fall narrative in the beginning of the middle build.
Deep dives
Scene feedback and the beginning of the hero's journey
In this episode, Tim discusses scene two of his story with Sean, who provides valuable feedback. They also explore the concept of the six basic story types and how they can be applied in writing. Tim receives positive feedback on the scene, highlighting its uniqueness, effective use of imagery and metaphor, and the establishment of suspense and curiosity. They discuss the importance of maintaining momentum in storytelling and the setup for the next scene, which will explore the repercussions of Jesse defying societal norms. Tim's writing style is praised for its organic flow and intuitive understanding of storytelling. The episode concludes with a discussion on the hero's journey and how Tim's story fits into its narrative structure.
Analyzing the HEDO meter and the narrative arc
Sean introduces the concept of the HEDO meter, a computer program that analyzes positive and negative emotional arcs in stories. The program confirms the existence of Kurt Vonnegut's six core story arcs. Sean suggests that Tim's story follows a man falls into the whole narrative arc, transitioning into a rise and fall narrative in the beginning of the middle build. He also advises Tim to trust his intuition and continue writing the next few scenes, where supernaturally-aided helpers will guide Jesse through trials and tribulations, preparing her for her journey to find her brother in the capital. He emphasizes building suspense as the end of the beginning hook nears, leaving readers with a holy shit moment.
Maintaining third person omniscient point of view
Tim questions whether he should introduce other points of view in the story or stick with telling it solely from Jesse's perspective. Sean advises him to continue using third person omniscient point of view, similar to Harry Potter and Hunger Games, allowing readers to see events through Jesse's eyes. However, he encourages Tim to think about the actions and motivations of the villains and how their manipulations can advance the story. The villains may psychologically manipulate Jesse to achieve their goals and convince her to follow their desired path. Sean emphasizes the importance of exploring how the villains will get Jesse to the capital without resorting to overt methods.
Trusting intuition and writing the next scenes
Sean encourages Tim to trust his intuition and continue writing the next eight to nine scenes. He advises Tim to focus on exploring how the helpers will teach Jesse important skills or survival strategies in her new way of life. Sean highlights the significance of progressively complicating the man in the hole narrative arc and suggests considering ways the villains can exploit Jesse's desire to find her brother. He proposes ending the beginning hook with a revelation that her brother is alive, turning it into a middle build where Jesse embarks on a journey to the capital. Sean ensures Tim that he will help guide him through this process.
New research shows there are only 6 stories that every book is based on. Shawn and Tim discuss the implications of this and how it applies to Tim's story.
